Where Do You Find It?

More than forty-eight hours ago, a blizzard warning went into effect.  It has been snowing nonstop with wild winds howling.  Any signs of wildlife are nonexistent.  Where are the deer, fox, squirrels, rabbits, and birds?  Hopefully, they have found spaces to keep them safe.

Where they and we humans reside can represent many things.  It can be a shelter from the elements over which we have no control.  It can be a sanctuary from those with harmful intentions.  Sometimes home is more about those with us, than the spaces we occupy.  In 2020 we were introduced to nine characters in Our Friend Hedgehog: The Story Of Us.  This tale is one of wonderful parts becoming a marvelous whole.

These beloved characters, Hedgehog, Mutty, Mole, Owl, Beaver, Hen and Chicks (2), and Annika Mae Flores have returned in Our Friend Hedgehog: A Place To Call Home (Alfred A. Knopf, an imprint of Random House Children's Books, October 18, 2022).  In this newest book of eleven chapters and a beautiful introduction, a discovery leads to a quest.  This quest reveals a truth to hold fast in all our hearts.

Families come in all shapes and sizes.

Autumn is nearly over for the friends in Hedge Hollow.  Hedgehog is dreaming of making a snowhog as soon as the snow falls.  She has gathered all the necessary supplies. 

Today, she and Mutty are on their way from their island to Owl's loft for a story time.  After reaching shore and walking in the woods, Hedgehog and Mutty are stunned by what they see.  It's someone who looks just like Hedgehog.  How is that possible?

At Owl's loft, Owl and Mole comfort Hedgehog and decide she has seen her doppelganger.  The quest begins.  Meanwhile Annika Mae is assisting Beaver as his works on the Friend Fort.  Their conversations revolve around building versus design and cold weather wear and who needs it the most.

Soon, Beaver is asked to help Hedgehog, Mutty, Mole and Owl.  Annika Mae, Hen and her Chicks stay behind at the Friend Fort.  The five friends make an unexpected discovery.  Hedgehog has a decision to make.  What will she decide?  And can she change a decision once it is made?  Overnight snow falls.  

At Friend Fort, there are more good surprises.  Friends embrace friends.  Friends embrace the winter season and its joys.  It is a time of firsts and forevers.

The five-sentence introduction spoken by Annika Mae is a warm welcome, an invitation readers know leads into the pages of a heart-print story.  Author Lauren Castillo, through her intentional descriptions of place and time, brings us back to Hedge Hollow.  Wherever we are we are surrounded by this magical world, as if we never left.  Each chapter heading offers a glimpse of what we can expect to be revealed.

Through the blend of narrative and dialogue by and between the characters, our knowledge of their individual personalities and quirks grows. (Readers will enjoy how Mole adds words from other languages to her commentary.)  They are beings we want to know.  We share their anxieties and triumphs.  We can't help but love them.  Here are several passages.

"What are we looking for again?" Beaver asked as he began paddling.

"Do you ever listen?" Owl hooted. "We are looking for Hedgehog's doppelganger. Her look-alike."

"Is that why you were too busy to help with the fort earlier?"  Beaver groused.  "And why did you need my safety goggles?"

"What are you talking about, Beaver?" Hedgehog looked puzzled.

"I saw you, Hedgehog.  You were headed around that bend."  Beaver pointed past his dam.

" Beaver, compadre.  Hedgehog has been with us all morning.  It couldn't have been her,"  said Mole.

For a moment everyone just looked at each other in confusion.

" The doppelganger!"  cried Owl.  " It must have been the doppelganger." 

" Are you sure it went that direction?"  asked Mole.

" Captain Beaver is always sure,"  Beaver boasted.

Owl rolled his eyes. " Let's go!"  he urged.

They would miss snowball fights, snow tubing, and most important of all, snowhogs.  Hedgehog could not imagine sleeping through all of that! These hedgehogs might be made of the same spines and snouts, but their hearts spoke different languages.

In looking at the front, right side, of the dust jacket we are pleased to see Hedgehog and Mutty again.  Hedgehog looks curiously at the other hedgehog.  She has never seen anyone like her.  A first snow coats the landscape, remnants of autumn still visible.  The title text is varnished.  To the left of the bright blue spine is an endearing portrait of the friends seated on the ground covered in autumn leaves and huddled in a hug.  Leaves swirl upward on either side of the text.  It is the introduction.

The book case in the same blue is plain except for the front.  Here we see Hedgehog and Mutty in silhouette, facing each other.  On the opening and closing endpapers is a colorful map of Hedge Hollow.  The river winds past Hedgehog's Island, past Mole's Hole and Owl's Lookout.  Before it gets to Beaver's Dam, it meanders by Hen and Chicks' Marsh, the Friend Fort and Annika Mae's House on the hill.  In the upper, righthand corner is another new addition, Hedge Hideaway.

Artist Lauren Castillo's illustrations rendered

using pen, pencils, watercolor, and Photoshop

warm every page turn with their presence.  Hedgehog and Mutty are on both the initial and formal title pages.  A bundle of autumn leaves showcases the dedication page.  Floating leaves draw our focus to the Contents page.

Gorgeous double-page pictures enhance the text for each chapter heading.  We see Hedgehog's Island in the river bordered by trees dressed in the hues of fall.  We are brought close to Beaver working on the Friend Fort, materials and tools placed near the building.  A bird's eye view shows Beaver, Mutty, Hedgehog, Mole, and Owl traveling by raft down the river on their quest.  Even though snow is falling and covering the ground, you cannot look at the last chapter visual without being warmed at the sight of the endearing characters outside their Friend Fort. (And you will probably laugh out loud at the flag.)

These illustrations convey to readers a world as real as that in which any of us reside.  The intricate details in Lauren Castillo's signature style, her color selections, lines and brush strokes are brimming with emotion and motion.  We willingly pause to not miss a single element.  

One of my many favorite illustrations is of Hedgehog and Mutty.  The affection Hedgehog holds for Mutty is as strong as if Mutty were alive; perhaps more so.  In this two-page image it is snowing.  Snow covers the ground.  From the left side to the right side, we see footprints in the snow.  Hedgehog is walking to the right top part of the visual.  Her back is to us.  She carries Mutty on her shoulders.  This picture is layered with meaning.  Hedgehog's heart is taking her where she belongs.

This second book, Our Friend Hedgehog: A Place To Call Home written and illustrated by Lauren Castillo, in a timeless series is certain to be well-loved and read repeatedly.  Regardless of how many times this title is read, you know as soon as you finish the last sentence, you will read the story again.  The best stories endure.  I highly recommend you place this title in your professional and personal collections.  (I have personally gifted both books this year.)

To learn more about Lauren Castillo and her other work, please access her website by following the link attached to her name.  At the page dedicated to this title, Lauren has resources for you to download.  Lauren has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  The cover reveal with a creator interview for this title was hosted by John Schu at Watch. Connect. Read.  At the publisher's website, you can view interior images and listen to an audiobook preview.

Friendship Lost. Friendship Found.

In our collective memories most of our first (and sometimes our only) best friends are not human.  We may find an animal in the wild who visits us, or we visit.  Perhaps we hold a special place in our hearts for an animal who has resided in our homes, currently or in the past.  For many the comfort and confidence provided by a toy is the key to our contentment.  If in the presence of a wild animal, an animal who lives with us or a beloved toy we feel all is right with the world, then this individual is the truest of friends.

This special kind of friendship is cherished.  If it is taken from us, we do whatever is necessary to regain it.  And that journey, if we are fortunate, reveals rewards we can never have expected.  In her first longer book, the start in a series, author illustrator Lauren Castillo generously gives us Our Friend Hedgehog: The Story Of Us (Alfred A. Knopf, an imprint of Random House Children's Books, May 5, 2020).  These nine chapters plus an introduction are 128 pages of heartwarming enchantment certain to resonate with generations of readers.

Sometimes you make a friend and it feels 
like you have known that friend your entire
life.

For a long time on an island lived Hedgehog and her friend Mutty, a toy stuffed dog.  They were inseparable living a life of soothing satisfaction. Their lives were suddenly upended on the day of the Terrible Storm.  Mutty, in a swirl of wild wind, blew from the island and Hedgehog.

Shaking off her deep despair, Hedgehog left the island, swimming to the forest.  Despite calling and calling for Mutty, he was not found.  Deciding to rest on a pile of leaves for the night, Hedgehog found herself plunging down a hole.  Wow!  Hedgehog landed in Mole's home.  The kindly creature with a flair for languages had a plan for finding Mutty.  The newly formed duo headed through tunnels, seeking Owl, who resided at Lookout Point.

Owl, displaying definitive wisdom and astute physical qualities, bolstered the saddened Hedgehog and her new pal, Mole.  A notebook, a drawing, and a flight to gather ideas was the next phase of this quest.  Three hearts and heads provided companionship and clarity.  At Beaver's dam, amid his gruff denials, a discovery was made.

A rousing ride on the river, a treasure-hunting mother and a lost photograph pointed the group of animals toward a home on a hill.  A girl, Annika Mae Flores, held the key to Hedgehog's happiness.  Collected clues created a new tale, a tale of friends rescuing each other and themselves.


To have this narrative told in the voice of Annika Mae Flores, means she is the kind of person with a tender and listening heart.  It indicates as an author Lauren Castillo wanted this character to hear all the other stories before creating a single story of the further adventures of this cast.  It is as if Annika Mae Flores is a weaver gathering threads to fashion a beautiful tapestry of their shared lives.

Each chapter heading with a minimum amount of words describes a character, an object, or a feeling.  In these chapters Lauren Castillo uses language to depict places and events vividly.  Her dialogue shapes the characters' personalities for readers.  Here are several passages.

She took a deep breath, jumped in, and set
off on a journey to find her dear friend.
The river was rough, but luckily Hedgehog
was a good swimmer.  She could swim all
the strokes, including the backstroke (which
was her favorite.) 

"Hooty hoot, who goes there?" called
Owl.  Owl never missed a trick.
"Guten Tag, Owl! Good day," said Mole.
"This is my new friend, Hedgehog.  She
needs our help."
"Help?" Owl perked up.  "What kind of
help?"
"I lost my best friend, in the . . . " Hedgehog
trailed off, beginning to weep again.
"Foggy weather is terrible for hide-and-
seek, my little hoglet."
Mole spoke for Hedgehog.  "We are not
playing hide-and-seek, Owl.  We are talking
about a friend in peril."
"Hmm, peril?" Owl pondered.  "You mean
very serious and immediate danger.  Well,
I do happen to have fast wings and excellent eyes.


(Please note I am writing this blog post using an ARC.)

In a pleasing scene of the area near the river, Lauren Castillo has framed the friends in greenery teaming with life.  Tiny ladybugs, several butterflies and a comical snail join the companions.  Each of the friends, Hen and Chicks, Beaver, Hedgehog, Mutty, Mole, Annika Mae and Owl are exhibiting their most endearing qualities within a full color palette.

To the left, on the back, with their backs to us sit the friends.  With a large sunflower on the left and a tall marsh flower on the right, they are seated in between them.  First is Hen and Chicks (One chick is perched on the sunflower.), then comes Owl, followed by Annika Mae, Mutty, Hedgehog with an arm around Mutty, Beaver and finally Mole. Above them the introduction is placed.

On the opening endpapers is a map of Hedge Hollow.  Hedgehog's Island, Mole's Hole, Owl's Lookout, Hen and Chicks' Marsh and Beaver's Dam are shown and labeled.  On the top of the hill with the river winding around and behind it is Annika Mae's House.  This is followed by an initial title page with Hedgehog and Mutty seated and facing each other.  Hedgehog is on the left on a white canvas, facing the formal title page.  With a page turn, opposite the publication information, is the dedication page.  This dedication says a lot about Lauren Castillo and this book.

After the Table of Contents is The Cast.  Here we meet all the characters, left to right in a row.  Before each chapter begins a double-page picture displays the essence of what readers can expect.  Taped to (placed on) this image is a meaningful photograph.  Above each chapter beginning is a stamp done in black.  It is a single symbol representing the chapter.

These illustrations rendered

using pen, pencils, watercolor, and Photoshop

shift in size to punctuate the pacing.  They may be a cluster of three small illustrations on a single page, single-page pictures, double-page pictures or a full-page visual extending over the gutter.  The attributes on the characters are detailed and textured.  (You'll find yourself wanting to hug all of them, even somewhat grumpy Beaver.)  The elements in their homes will have readers stopping to notice each one.  They have been carefully placed with purpose.  Lauren Castillo has used white space with excellence.

One of my many, many favorite illustrations is across the top half of two pages with the narrative underneath it.  We are inside Mole's Hole.  On the left buttons are on the walls acting as hooks.  To the right of them is a handheld mirror upside down.  There are several acorns and a mushroom.  To the right of the gutter is Hedgehog looking at Mole on the right.  She is standing in the doorway to a tunnel.  A wreath of leaves arches over this opening.  This picture exhibits a friendship forming.


This enchanting tale of single stories becoming part of a greater story is one of the most heartwarming stories of 2020. Our Friend Hedgehog: The Story Of Us written and illustrated by Lauren Castillo is one of those books you'll read over and over again for the joy which builds from beginning to end.  Like life, there are moments of sadness and struggle, but love and companionship triumph.  We can all be grateful to Lauren Castillo for giving us this marvelous book you'll want to have on your personal and professional bookshelves.

To learn more about Lauren Castillo and her other work, please follow the link attached to her name to access her personal website.  Her blog is linked here.  Lauren Castillo has accounts on Facebook,  Instagram and Twitter.  Lauren Castillo and this book are featured on teacher librarian extraordinaire Travis Jonker's blog, 100 Scope Notes at School Library Journal.  You'll love seeing all the process artwork.  At Scholastic's Ambassador of School Libraries John Schumacher's Watch. Connect. Read., Lauren is showcased for the cover reveal and conversation and book trailer premiere in a second post.  Both are linked here.  Last week Lauren Castillo did a virtual book launch with an interactive video presentation at Midtown Scholar Bookstore. We could comment during the launch and ask questions later.  It is linked here.

UPDATE:  Please take a few moments to read this interview about this title with Lauren Castillo in Kirkus.  Lauren Castillo has created several printable activity sheets for readers linked here and here.

"It's elementary my dear..."

When an event occurs with no initial logical explanation it can be considered a mystery.  Likewise any story in which this type of event drives the main plot is named a mystery.  As you read collecting the clues, it's like going on a scavenger hunt.  Following along with the characters is almost as exciting as being there with them.

Down through the history of mystery fiction there are classic and contemporary detective teams; Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, Frank and Joe Hardy (The Hardy Boys), Nancy Drew, Bess Marvin and George Fayne (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories) Emily Crane and James Lee (The Book Scavenger), Detective Rick Zengo and Detective Corey O'Malley (Platypus Police Squad), and Detective Wilcox and Captain Griswold (Wilcox and Griswold Mystery).  For younger readers a new duo hits the scene in their first puzzler.  The Missing Mola Lisa (Case #1 Q & Ray series) (Graphic Universe, a trademark of Lerner Publishing Group, Inc., August 1, 2017) presented by the collaborative wife and husband team of author Trisha Speed Shaskan and illustrator Stephen Shaskan.

Before the first of ten chapters begins we are introduced to an assortment of characters on a page titled

Who's Who.

Our terrific twosome, Quillan Lu Hedgeson aka Q and Ray Ratzberg followed by Mr. Shrew, media specialist, Ms. Boar, classroom teacher, Ms. Easel, art teacher, Jimmy, magic shop owner, The Great Don Realo, magician and Officer Rocco all play various and vital roles.  As readers will note Mr. Shew and the media center serve as the hub of the Super Sleuth happenings.

After an exchanged greeting between Mr. Shrew and Ray, we discover the new student from France is really Q attempting to fool Ray with a disguise.  It's her goal to become a master.  Ray wants to be a master of something else besides cheese-and-onion sandwiches.  Magic is his aim.

Their second grade classmates are going on a field trip today to see the famed Mola Lisa at the Elm Tree Art Museum but first the students are entertained by The Great Don Realo, a surprise visit by the magician.  In the afternoon as the children of Elm Tree Elementary stand before the Mola Lisa suddenly the lights go out, fire is sighted but before they can exit the lights are back on and the fire has disappeared.  The fire is not the only thing missing. The Mola Lisa is gone.

Sharp-eyed and on the job, Q and Ray quickly discover two clues.  Visits to three locations increase their knowledge of the culprit responsible for the crime but they lack real evidence.  Like the great detectives before them, they reexamine all the gathered clues, leading them to the truth. Q and Ray, masters of magic and disguise, deliver the final surprise.


Nearly the entire narrative is told through conversations between the characters.  Trisha Speed Shaskan weaves interesting facts about magic into the story which careful readers will eventually see are key to locating information about the theft.  She also cleverly uses Q's passion for disguise as part of the plot details.

The dialogue between the characters will be easily understood by the intended audience.  When Q and Ray are trying to solve the case, it's as if we are joining in the chat.  Humor appears when you least expect it.

Class:  ABCs!
Raise your paws!

Here is another passage during lunch between Ray and Q.

How about a magic trick?
Sure!
Look at the quarter.
It's been in my family for years.
We've passed it from one rat to the next.
Ha! It's gone!

Don't worry.  I won't let history
slip through my paws.  It's
right here! Or---right ear!
Aces! How did
you do that?


When you first look at the front of the book case, it's hard not to think of Saturday morning cartoons.  The characters are cute and comical at the same time.  Illustrator Stephen Shaskan has tied all the elements in the image together to look like a display at a gallery.  And he includes a huge clue or is it a red herring?  To the left, on the back, is text relative to the title you might find on a jacket flap.  The opening and closing endpapers are a crisp, pristine white.  A design technique similar to the case is used for the title page with text and images like pictures hanging on a wall.

In this graphic novel the panels are varied in size with the frames having rounded corners.  Smaller panels are placed within larger panels.  Sometimes we will be given a different perspective to draw our focus to a specific point as when Ray is doing his magic trick. Stephen's signature geometric rays radiant from his characters in some of the scenes.

The placement of the speech balloons will assist early readers.  For emphasis and dramatic effect text is enlarged, made bold and placed in jagged speech balloons.  Readers can easily discern the elevated volume of the speaker's voice.  I think readers with any art knowledge will find the depiction of The Scream, Girl with a Pearl Earring and the Mola Lisa hilarious.  A nod is given to two specific artists in the clothing worn by Ms. Easel.

One of my favorite of many illustrations is when Q and Ray are talking over a twist in the case.  They are standing facing each other.  Q is wearing a yellow jacket and skirt with purple accessories and shoes.  Ray is wearing another combination of his usual checked shirt (light blue and white) with red pants and shoes with light blue socks.  Their expressions are animated, endearing and funny.

During an impromptu and very short questions and answer on social media several nights ago, Trisha had this to say about this first title in the proposed series.

Like our picture book Punk Skunks, Stephen and I created Q & Ray together from its conception.  While brainstorming which type of story we wanted to create, we decided on a mystery for a few reasons.  For years, I taught mystery-writing classes to elementary students; it was my most popular class.  From teaching it, I always wanted to write a mystery.  Like the students, Stephen and I loved mysteries as kids.  At first, Q & Ray was a chapter book, but two things happened.  One: Stephen and I read tons of graphic novels for kids to prep for a class we taught kids on the subject.  In the meantime, I worked as a literacy coach with elementary school students.  Some of the emerging readers wanted to read the Babymouse and Lunch Lady graphic novel series, but they didn't have the reading skills to read them, yet.  I though the format could provide a readable text, but also visual cues for young readers.  Stephen and I chose the names Q & Ray as a riff on Q & A, questions and answers, which are the basis of mysteries.  While writing the story, I drew upon my love of Sherlock Holmes.  While illustrating the story, Stephen drew upon his love of the aesthetics of Harvey Comics (Little Dot, Richie rich, Casper the Friendly Ghost),---for the use of thick black lines and flat colors.  Together, Stephen and I drew upon the power of friendship; how a team versus an individual can be best suited to tackle the odds of solving mysteries---and of course, creating books!


For readers eager to read graphic novels and solve mysteries while enjoying the companionship of two likeable characters hand them The Missing Mola Lisa (Case #1 Q & Ray series) written by Trisha Speed Shaskan with illustrations by Stephen Shaskan.  I think it might be fun to act out some of the chapters or scenes from the chapters like a reader's theater.  I know there will be a copy of this on my personal bookshelves and ready to hand out at Halloween.  You will want one on your professional shelves too.  On the final page under Fun Facts readers can learn about Leonardo da Vinci upon which Leonardo da Squity is based in this book.

To learn more about Trisha Speed Shaskan and Stephen Shaskan and their other work please visit their respective websites by following the links attached to their names.  To view interior portions of this title please stop by the publisher's website.  Both Trisha and Stephen wrote posts for Picture Book Month.  Trisha was featured at KidLit 411.

You Look, You See, What Can It Be?

a collapsible shade for protection against weather consisting of

fabric stretched over hinged ribs radiating from a central pole;

especially: a small one for carrying

Merriam-Webster

For most people an umbrella is exactly as defined and written by the authoritative folks at Merriam-Webster.  For others in addition to the more practical uses, it is a fashion statement, a piece of wearable art, a proclamation of one's lifelong pursuits or a declaration of one's viewpoint on a specific issue.  An umbrella may be a solid color on the outside but colorful on the inside for the bearer.  Some have a Monopoly board along the edges; others are shaped like large leaves found in a rainforest.  

For those with the gift of imagining, umbrellas can be a little bit more.  The Green Umbrella (NorthSouth Books, Inc., February 1, 2017), by author Jackie Azua Kramer and illustrator Maral Sassouni, takes us into the realm of marvelous maybe.  This debut picture book for these collaborators encourages readers to challenge what they know.  Like all good stories it asks them what if?

One rainy day an Elephant was taking a walk with his green umbrella.

Clearly enjoying his walk, the Elephant was surprised to be stopped by a Hedgehog.  This Hedgehog accused him of having his boat.  A BOAT?  Without a doubt, Hedgehog perceives the umbrella as a boat describing in great detail his adventures in THAT boat.

The Elephant did not know what to make of this but nevertheless invited the Hedgehog to join him under the umbrella.  In no time at all a Cat stops the twosome making another equally strange claim.  He too relates how the umbrella served him in another capacity as he roamed the woods and stopped for a cup of tea.

Now there are three creatures under the Elephant's green umbrella.  As they walk along they are approached by the Bear whose claims are unbelievable.  The leap from umbrella to flying machine is extraordinary.  To further justify his ownership the Elephant relates all the things the umbrella has been and done for him.  It simply could not belong to anyone else but his justifications do seem to prove a point.

The Elephant begins to walk away when it stops raining.  As the Hedgehog, the Cat and the Bear start to protest up walks an old Rabbit.  An extended but familiar scenario is presented.  As is his custom Elephant offers an answer but this time another voice becomes part of the chorus.  This makes all the difference.


In a rhythm as old as time, Jackie Azua Kramer spins a tale drawing all readers into the woven tapestry with her words.  Not once but three times the Elephant is challenged in his belief but his response is one of kindness.  After the third time the cadence shifts, then is repeated with a fourth encounter.  As the final threads finish the entire scene the Elephant's generosity becomes part of a new adventure for strangers who are now forever friends.

The mix of dialogue and some narrative offers readers a chance to participate in the story.  Repetition of key phrases supplies an ebb and flow.  The explanations of all the animals are vivid and lyrical.  Even though an article precedes each of their names, by capitalizing the first letter they become very significant characters.  Here is a sample passage.

"I crossed the deep oceans on my boat and faced the crash of icy waves.  I saw dolphins leap two by two and tasted the salty spray of whales.  The stars were my guide and my boat a faithful friend," said the Hedgehog.  


Rendered in a mix of painting and cut paper collage all of the illustrations by Maral Sassouni beginning with the dust jacket (I am working with an F & G.) are whimsical and utterly charming.  Her landscapes even in the rain are welcoming.  When you first see the front of the dust jacket, the colorful elephant carrying the green umbrella literally sings out to readers.  (Is anyone thinking of Singin' In The Rain?)  As our eyes drift left to the back, a group of friendly mice wearing raincoats and boots and carrying umbrellas are sure to elicit smiles.

The opening and closing endpapers are an extension of the dust jacket.  The Elephant is now walking over a rolling hill.  He is accompanied by a village of mice wearing raincoats, jackets, scarves, boots and carrying umbrellas.  They are joined by a small bird in similar attire.  One smaller mouse is leaping with joy.  The Elephant is placed under the text on the title page carrying an unopened umbrella.  To the left on the verso is a container filled with unopened umbrellas.

Each page turn reveals either a two page picture, single page visual or a circular image placed on a single page in white.  These shifts in size compliment the narrative superbly.  When the Elephant and the old Rabbit expand on the theme, Maral alters her style giving the one a sepia-toned color palette with spot color and the other a more vibrant depiction looking like places on a map of life.  The inclusion of extra details, the arc of lines, the smiling faces of the characters and open positions of body placements convey an exuberant outlook by the characters.  The pictures when each animal is speaking of their name for the umbrella are so inviting you want to step right into the page.

One of my favorite illustrations is of the Cat explaining the importance and use of the green umbrella.  A tranquil forest is the stopping place of the Cat.  She is seated on the right on a log with a Raccoon.  They are enjoying sweet treats and cups of tea.  To the left the umbrella stands opened over a cozy bed and a rock holding a lantern.  An open book is placed nearby.  Red birds, small red-capped mushrooms and leafy plants frame the duo.  Strung between trees are two rows of pennants.


Sharing The Green Umbrella written by Jackie Azua Kramer with pictures by Maral Sassouni with readers and listeners is sure to generate a cheery connection.  This story will inspire others to think of possible uses for umbrellas pointing out the value in everyone's viewpoint.  The next time it rains be sure to take an umbrella.  You never know who you will meet and what stories they will have to tell you.

To discover more about Jackie Azua Kramer and Maral Sassouni and their work, please visit their websites by following the links attached to their names.  Yesterday they graciously answered a series of questions about this title and a little bit about themselves in a blog post found here.  Maral includes many pictures of her process.  At a publisher's website you can view several interior images.  John Schumacher, Scholastic's Ambassador of School Libraries, reveals the book trailer on his blog, Watch. Connect. Read.  Be sure to read the posts by other bloggers participating in this blog tour.

UPDATE:  There is a wonderful article at Pen & Oink about the art process for this book, March 29, 2017.

A Chat With The Creators Of The Green Umbrella

Wind in Michigan, no matter the area, is a given.  The influence of the lakes and the land formations contribute to its presence sometimes day after day for weeks.  A calm day is a rarity.

It's easy to recall no one on campus at Central Michigan University made it through one semester let alone four years without more than one umbrella.  On windy afternoons a common site was a cluster of umbrellas, inside out, abandoned in garbage receptacles.  Many rainy days would find students scurrying to class, huddled under their umbrellas, only to have them ripped from their hands, tumbling across campus usually looking nothing like their original shapes.  It was hilarious to watch until it happened to you.


Seeing the cover of The Green Umbrella (NorthSouth Books, Inc., February 1, 2017), a debut picture book by both author Jackie Azua Kramer and illustrator Maral Sassouni, is like walking across campus all those years ago eager to see what the day, instructors and students will reveal.  It's full of possibilities.  It also makes you curious about the two individuals responsible for this children's literature gem.


I was thrilled to be able to send them both questions.  Their answers are delightful, as if the three of us are seated in cozy chairs around a crackling fire.  I know you will feel as if they are good friends once you read their replies.  I do.


Let's start first with author Jackie Azua Kramer.  My questions are in bold.  Her answers are in italics.

1: Was there a particular incident, an object, a thread of conversation or something you read which placed the seed for this book in your mind?

The catalyst for The Green Umbrella (TGU) were these illustrations I discovered which all revolved around a green umbrella. That began the wild ‘what if’, the chemical reaction, otherwise known as, inspiration. What if a cast of characters each saw the umbrella as something else, like when you look up at a cloud?

But perhaps the seed for the story was planted long ago when I was a child. As a child into my teens, I travelled all over the world with my family. My father used to remind us as we met new people, saw new things, ate new food and heard new languages--that we were American ambassadors. We, as ambassadors, should reflect the best in people. Maybe, the Elephant in the story is that ambassador, with the Hedgehog, the Cat, the Bear and the old Rabbit, reflecting the different people and cultures, that see the umbrella in unique ways.

2: Your choice of characters, the Elephant, the Hedgehog, the Cat, the Bear and the old Rabbit are an interesting combination.  In the real world it would be unlikely to see them together but it works in this book adding to the whimsy.  Did you have a particular reason for choosing these specific animals?  Why was the Elephant chosen as the main character?

I get to play in the most fun, raucous and fantastical playground…a child’s imagination. The idea of characters who are unlikely to be seen together remind me of why I love my work as a storyteller. I’m not the first one to do this. Not to compare myself, but perhaps I was channeling AA Milne, in the classic, The House at Pooh Corner.  Alongside Pooh, there’s Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger and Roo. Both, the Elephant in my story, and Pooh, remain at the center of the story and the action. There’s a scene in The Green Umbrella, when they’re all sitting together having tea, and part of the text reads: “…shared their stories.” I love the idea of all of us sharing our journeys with each other. The world is becoming flatter, and the unlikeliness of this bunch becoming friends, to my thinking, makes it a universal story.

3: Throughout the book the green umbrella becomes many things depending on the character’s voice we are hearing.  Other than a shelter from weather, what object would the Green Umbrella be for you?

Not actually an object, but a TREE, without a doubt! I was born on April 22nd, Earth Day and right before Arbor Day. I have a strong and deep connection to trees. A day doesn’t go by that I don’t stop and notice a tree. I write, dream, think and pray, under and around trees. Under the branches of a tree, like the green umbrella, they both provide a place where all are welcome. I have many wonderful memories of family dinners and laughing with friends under a tree.

4: Do you have a writing nook or a spot where you prefer to write over other locations, Jackie?  Would you describe it for us, please?

Oh, Margie, I can’t pick just one! Different settings create certain moods for me. My most favorite place is my mind. A story lives and percolates in my writerly mind for a long time. It starts with an idea and then I move quickly to images. Moving images allow me to play, imagine, and edit easily in my imagination. Inspired by Hurricane Sandy, “The Boy and the Eight Hundred Pound Gorilla” (Candlewick Press, TBD), lived in my imagination for two years. 

When I’m ready to begin a draft, I’ve lovingly nicknamed my back yard, ‘The Canopy’.  It’s a secluded spot surrounded by large leafy trees and bushes that I have the privilege to write under during the spring and summer. Throughout the day the quality of light shifts through the leaves and branches. And the trees are filled with all kinds of visitors-- birds, squirrels and insects that become my soundtrack. And often in winter, you can find me at my beloved local library. In a quiet corner, with giant windows that face an ivy-covered church, it becomes a perfect writing nook.

5.  What is my favorite place to read?

My bed surrounded by a pile of books.



Let's hear what illustrator Maral Sassouni has to share with us.  My queries are in bold.  Her replies are in italics.


1.   Your artwork for The Green Umbrella has a distinct essence to it. Would you please describe to us how these images were rendered?


My artwork is a combination of painting and cut paper collage. Sometimes the painting dominates, and other times the collage dominates: it depends on the project. In any case, I paint with both acrylics and oil paints. Occasionally, I also incorporate other materials/ techniques —fabric scraps, India ink, monoprints, oil crayons — just to get closer to the image in my mind’s eye.

For The Green Umbrella, the collage elements were dominant. I created the backgrounds and the characters separately. Essentially, it was like paper figures in a little paper theater on each page. Even though the composition is always sketched out in advance, I like the freedom of making adjustments to the characters and setting until I get them just right and finally glue them together.

After that, I just scan the images into Photoshop and tidy up stray pencil marks, glue crumbs, cat hairs— and occasionally add a touch of sparkle and glow digitally.

2.  In my way of thinking the settings for each scene add to the underlying imaginative quality of the pictures. I am curious as to why you had the animals chatting in a city and eventually meeting together outside of their community. Was this something you thought of the first time you read the manuscript or did this evolve?


The idea of setting the story in a city came to me immediately. Rainy days in cities are visually interesting to me, with their shiny sidewalks, wavy reflections and puddles providing bright mirrors here and there.

Then of course, cities are where you might cross paths with all kinds of unexpected characters — and this is what happens in the first half of the story. Later, the animals set aside their differences and become friends, and I wanted this to take place out of doors. The wide open spaces go along with the sense of new possibilities that the characters now have, as well as giving them somewhere to go as they light out for the territories.

3.  Is your choice of color palette expressly for this title or are these colors your signature hues?

In The Green Umbrella, I wanted to create a contrast between everyday reality on the one hand, and the world of imagination and adventure on the other. So the rainy town is in cool colors— it’s dim, damp, dreary and practically monochromatic… as opposed to the scenes described by each animal, which are in warm and vivid colors.

My other guiding principal in terms of color was to follow the day as it progressed from morning to night. From a somewhat soggy morning stroll to warm late afternoon light, then the glowing sunset colors and beyond — to the first twinkling stars and dreams of new explorations.

4.  Would you please describe for us your working space?


It’s a spare room at the top of the house. I’ve got three tables (just barely enough!), two bookshelves and one flat file (bulging with sketches, illustrations, prints and blank paper). When I’m working on a project, the walls are covered with sketches from the project as I try to figure out the characters, setting, page composition, color schemes and all of the other things that might help along a narrative. There are all kinds of inspiring scraps and swatches as well, there to trigger memories or new stories. It’s like the inside of my head!

5.  Where is your favorite place to read?

My very favorite place to read would be on a train at night. There are no distractions, you can’t see or even guess at the landscape, and the rhythmic sounds and gentle motion concentrates the mind wonderfully.  Total immersion…bliss!

(Sadly, night trains are not as much a part of my everyday life as they once were, so my favorite place to read that’s within reach in real life is the library on a rainy day.)


I am grateful to both Jackie Azua Kramer and Maral Sassouni for taking the time to help us become better acquainted with The Green Umbrella, their process and a little bit about themselves.  Be sure to visit this site tomorrow for more about The Green Umbrella.  You won't want to miss the double giveaway we have to offer! 

Jackie earned her Masters of Education from Queens College. She is a member of SCBWI and has written for the SCBWI Bulletin. In 2014, she was invited to be a member of the Bank Street Writers Lab, Bank Street College. In 2015 Jackie was a presenter at the 1st nErDCamp Long Island.  Her picture book, The Green Umbrella (North South Books) debuts February 2017 in English/German. Out soon --The Boy and the Eight Hundred Pound Gorilla (Candlewick Press, TBD) and If You Want to Fall Asleep (Clavis Books) in English/Dutch.  You can learn more about Jackie at her  website on  Twitter Facebook or Instagram 

Maral Sassouni was born in Philadelphia and grew up in California.  She's been an illustrator for over 20 years and has won many awards, including the SCBWI Portfolio Grand Prize.  Her work has been recognized by the Society of Illustrators, NY, and exhibited in group shows of children's illustrations around the world.  Based in Paris since 1992, Maral now divides her time between France and California.  The Green Umbrella is Maral's first picture book.  You can discover more about Maral at her website.  You can find her on Twitter, Flickr and Tumblr



I know you will want to know more about both of these talented ladies.  Stop by the other blogs on the tour.  There are giveaways at several.  Simply follow this link.

Anchors Aweigh

Sometimes when you aren't paying attention or even making an effort to listen, a portion of a remark or conversation will drift your way.  What you hear may or may not be out of context but it can change everything.  It's as if those very words are exactly what you need to hear at that moment, whether the individuals speaking are directing them at you or not.  It's as if the universe has sent you a miracle.

In a certain wood there is a certain creature that had this very thing happen.  The Friend Ship (Disney Hyperion, December 6, 2016) written by Kat Yeh with illustrations by Chuck Groenink follows a marvelous voyage.  It all begins with a misunderstanding.  

Hedgehog was curled up in a prickly little ball in the lonely little nook of a lonely little tree when she heard someone say her name.

In one of the phrases uttered by one of the animals the word friendship is mentioned.  It is followed by these words:

"---all she has to do is look."

Hedgehog immediately knows what she must do.  She has to build a boat fit for sailing on the seas.

As she puts the finishing touches on her vessel, a beaver wants to know if he can come with her.  Hedgehog welcomes the company as she seeks The Friend Ship.  Their first inquiry is made to a group of deer shifting their home for the season.  They have not seen The Friend Ship but they sure could use friends so they set sail with the beaver and Hedgehog.   

Each animal they meet has not seen the ship in question but all want to find it.  More and more animals are passengers searching for pals on Hedgehog's boat.  All are welcomed aboard with a resounding affirmative answer.  They trek to the north, they voyage to the south, and they glide to the east.  

Not finding The Friend Ship makes Hedgehog as sad as she was before this started.  The animals are quick to reassure her.  These critters look at life on the sunny side.  When they arrive at one of the last islands, a very tiny island with a very big sole occupant, Hedgehog receives an answer.  It's not what you might imagine but it will be.

In the character of Hedgehog Kat Yeh creates a universal being.  Everyone at one time or another has been in need of a friend.  Using the word play of friendship and friend ship to propel this story is sheer genius.  Her other choices for words are conversational and less formal; 

"Whatcha doing?" asked a curious beaver. 

With the meeting of each animal, the asked question, their replies and their queries, you can feel a positive force flowing from the pages.  It's amazing what combinations of the word yes can accomplish.  One other thing is the politeness of Hedgehog.  She always says 

"Excuse me."

Here is a sample passage.

"The Friend Ship!" said the rat.

"No...but, pretty please with 

stinky cheese, can I come?"

"Oh, yes!" said Hedgehog.

"Double yes!" said the beaver.

"Yes!"

"Yes!"

"Yes!"

"Yes-yessity-yes!" said the deer.

The scene on the unfolded dust jacket glows.  The varied hue of golden sky shines on the islands and green sea waters.  The ten animals and Hedgehog make for a happy-go-lucky-looking crew.  Even though the images on each of the flaps are different they appear as extensions of the main dust jacket illustration.  The book case is a wavy swirl of glorious ocean blue.  The title text in white appears over the ship with the beaver and Hedgehog as they first set sail.  They are tiny but determined.  

On the opening and closing endpapers Chuck Groenink has placed a map of the seas and islands in pale golden yellow, green and black.  Each of the islands is represented in relief.  Careful readers will see they are labeled.  Those same readers will notice numbers and arrows.  The closing endpapers reveal a little bit more.

One of the first things which captures your attention about the images in this title is the fine lines, delicate details and the expressions on the animals' faces.  These elements give a true sense of place and mood.  In the first two-page picture with Hedgehog curled in the tree, you want to reach out and hug her.  Your love for her starts right here.  

Groenink makes excellent use of white space to frame single illustrations; some of them circular.  Most of his visuals span two pages.  Even now I am smiling thinking about the humor found in some of his pictures; the deer wearing backpacks or holding a coffee cup, the rat fishing off the ledge, and Hedgehog wading in the water at the final island.  It's wonderful how Groenink indicates the passage of time.  You might want to check the mast and bow.  

One of my favorite illustrations spans two pages.  It's a bird's eye view of Hedgehog at the rudder and the beaver in the bow of the ship on the left side.  They are easing toward the shore of an island.  Standing in the clearing with the forest behind them on the right are four deer standing upright on their hind legs.  The color palette is muted but natural.  Seeing those deer with their backpacks will at the very least make you smile or in my case burst out laughing.

The Friend Ship written by Kat Yeh with illustrations by Chuck Groenink is splendiferous.  The characters, the story line and the illustrations all add up to joy.  This is the kind of book you need on your personal and professional shelves.  This is the kind of book you give to those you love.  You need to read and share this title often.

To discover more about Kat Yeh and Chuck Groenink please visit their websites by following the link attached to their names.  Chuck Groenink also maintains a blog on Tumblr.

When They Were Sleeping

In between dogs in my life, decades ago, I was asked and agreed to watch over a chocolate Labrador puppy when his humans were out of town.  He was a little over a year old and, as you can imagine, full of energy.  We went on several long walks every single day in addition to lunch time strolls before I headed back to school in the afternoon.  His appetite was voracious...for everything.

Coming home from work one day, I was surprised to see what appeared to be white suds all over the kitchen were the puppy was residing.  He had decided to snack on the bean bag chair his humans had left for him.  The stuffing must have been downright delicious as evidenced by our next several outings.  Within the next twenty-four hours some fluke of fate caused flooding in our basement.  A hose was extended from the basement, along the edge of the kitchen wall, and outside the back door to drain the water.  In short order the basement was not the only thing flooded.  Perhaps our canine friend thought the hose was some new kind of sausage.

To him this temporary state of residence seems to have been some kind of restaurant in which he needed to pass culinary judgment.  In a companion to Buddy and Earl, released in August 2015, author Maureen Fergus and illustrator Carey Sookocheff have collaborated to give us Buddy and Earl go exploring (Groundwood Books, House of Anansi Press, March 15, 2016).  These two best buds, like my puppy pal, see life through an entirely different lens than their humans.  This is what elevates the laughter factor through the proverbial roof.

The day had been long and full of adventures.  Buddy was looking forward to a good night's sleep.

Buddy's humans, Meredith, Michael, Mom and Dad are getting ready for bed.  Earl is tucked inside his new home above Buddy's pile of blankets as the household settles into slumber.  As Buddy is starting to head to dreamland, Earl whispers a goodnight and asks him for a bon voyage wish.

Snapped out of his snooze, Buddy questions Earl about the meaning of bon voyage.  As they converse about Earl's spontaneous desire for travel, Buddy becomes worried but he nevertheless bravely calls out a fond farewell.  Earl hops up on the wheel in his cage and starts running like a sprinter for parts unknown.  It goes around and around and around and around and around.

When Earl stops he is amazed to see surroundings which seem familiar.  When Buddy whispers the truth, Earl nearly faints to think Buddy could keep up with him as he traveled.  (I have to stop a moment because I am laughing so much, I can't type.)  Earl declares as long as they are here, they should

explore quietly.

As Earl warns of an ogre, discovers a beautiful lake next to a towering mountain, snacks on gourmet goodness and urges Buddy to save a damsel in distress from a monster, we are humorously aware of the truth as is Buddy, only he is not laughing.  He has found another hideous beast.  As our heroes find their way back to bed, a final wordless image foretells of another episode destined to the archives of hilarity thanks to this unpredictable, creative twosome.


The timing and word choices written by Maureen Fergus have fashioned one of my absolute favorite comedy teams in children's literature.  The conversational exchanges between the dog, Buddy, and Earl, the hedgehog, are a hilarious contrast between the truth and a perceived reality.  The blend between these chats and the straight narrative are superb.  Here is a sample passage.

After a long time, he stopped and looked around.
"This place looks eerily similar to the place I just left," whispered Earl. (page turn)
"Maybe that is because it is the place you just left," whispered Buddy.
When he heard Buddy's voice, Earl was so startled that he jumped and made a funny popping sound. ...


The matching dust jacket and book case in purple, black, white, brown and tan with a simple design and layout is the ideal opening for the narrative.  Clearly Earl is the leader of this adventure but Buddy, looking back, is not quite certain where they are going.  And why is he carrying a purse?

To the left, on the back, Buddy is shown in a square image framed in the purple background.  His nose is to the ground sniffing a trail of unknown objects. A complimentary color of pale yellow covers the opening and closing endpapers. Buddy with Earl on his back appear before the title page and verso.  There is a clue, in a small illustration, of things to come on the verso.

Carey Sookocheff renders her illustrations in this title

using acrylic gouache on watercolor paper and assembled in Photoshop

giving a clean look to each one adding shades of blue and gray to her original palette as shown on the jacket and case.  She alters between a small image surrounded by white, a full page, edge to edge, and double page pictures.  Her perspectives draw the reader right into the action of the story.  Her representations of Earl's perceptions definitely heighten the fun.

One of my many favorite illustrations is when Earl salutes Buddy as he gets ready for his trip.  He is standing outside his home with the wires and wheel in the background.  Buddy is looking downcast, concerned with where his friend is going and when he will return.  He does not know at this time what we know.  Sookocheff brings us close to the two characters' faces.


Buddy and Earl go exploring written by Maureen Fergus with pictures by Carey Sookocheff will endear readers to these characters, their lives and adventures as much as, if not more than, the first title.  Read this book aloud for a maximum laughter factor.  I guarantee you will have your audience rolling on the floor in laughter.  You might want to have a dog and hedgehog puppet ready for a little reader's theater.

To learn more about Maureen Fergus and Carey Sookocheff and their other work please follow the links attached to their names to access their websites.  By following this link to the publisher's website you can view interior images.  Maureen Fergus chats on the podcast, Storybook Spotlight, about Buddy and Earl.

For Love Of A Dog #13

In the summer of 2014 a study was released, confirming what humans chosen by canines already know, regarding the emotions experienced by dogs, It's Not Your Imagination---Your Dog Gets Jealous.  It is my belief after years of experience they not only exhibit an array of emotions but they have a sense of imagination.  This can be seen in the way they play and go about their doggy day.

Xena channeled her inner otter when she swam, skimming and gliding, for hours at a time.  Within a heartbeat she became a giant of the sea, a whale.  When she was in pursuit of a rock, sometimes bigger than my fist, she not only dove deep but it was incredible to see how long she would hold her breath. (I started timing her out of curiosity. One time she passed forty-five seconds on her way to fifty.  I was heading out to bring her up.)

For readers of these tribute blog posts, you know she had the strength of an ox.  How else could she pull me down a snowy road on cross-country skis?  One minute she was walking along in front of me, the next minute she was tugging me along as if to say, "Your pace is too slow, Mom!"  In the face of danger she became the leader of our pack of two; changing into a wolf to protect us.

She scrambled up steep grassy hills, tall sand dunes and rocky inclines like a goat.  She also tended to eat almost everything as goats are apt to do.  Her hearing rivaled that of a bat.  To try to open a cupboard, refrigerator door, her dog food container or treat bag without her hearing was impossible, even when she was sound asleep.

Elephants are said to have the best sense of smell but I think Xena would have won in a challenge.  A neighbor couple would take care of her if I was going to be late coming home.  After she fell in love with them (and they with her) she could smell when they were outside.  Their home was across the street from ours, kitty-corner and two houses down.  If they were in their back yard, out of sight, she still knew they were there.

She ran like a jaguar for the sheer fun of it or in giving chase with a canine friend.  No Frisbee was safe if she was near, jumping in the air like a kangaroo.  She was a blanket, a pillow, a foot-warmer and most of all an angel watching over me for all of her life.

The imaginative nature of dogs is often exhibited in their curiosity and in their need to discover, regardless of the outcome.  Buddy and Earl (Groundwood Books, House of Anansi Press, August 11, 2015) written by Maureen Fergus with pictures by Carey Sookocheff follows Buddy on an adventure full of surprises.  A gray day turns into what promises to be years of sunshine.

It was a rainy afternoon.  Buddy was feeling bored and a little lonely.

This feeling of boredom and loneliness is about to change.  One of his humans, Meredith, walks into the living room telling him to remain right where he is as she places a box on the floor. She leaves intending to return in a minute or two.

Buddy simply can't resist this temptation.  Peering into the box he sees the weirdest thing he's ever encountered.  Licking it is a bad idea.  It starts to make noise and move.  This is going to be fun!

After verbal introductions Buddy asks Earl exactly what he is.  Earl's reply of

I'm a race car

does not match Buddy's observations.  Three more improbable answers continue the exchange until Earl suddenly wants to know what Buddy is.  Rather than listening to what Buddy might say, Earl immediately starts guessing.  A huge inanimate object, a large jungle animal, and a tiny mammal are his first three suggestions.


Earl reveals he is only teasing but with complete candor states they must be the same.  With that announcement of their dual identity the shenanigans commence.  Totally enthralled by the excitement of this game Buddy romps on the furniture following Earl's lead.  Mom is not happy by Buddy's antics when she enters the room.  Earl speaks. Buddy hears.  A new status for the twosome is born.  It's simply the best.


Maureen Fergus uses word combinations and character contrasts to entice readers and maintain our interest.  With the words

mysterious box 

and

"Stay, Buddy!"

she initially elevates our anticipation.  We hope Buddy will not stay.  We feel like cheering at his curiosity.  As the back-and-forth banter between Buddy and Earl starts and progresses the comedy builds until Earl's revelation.  Their play will have you wishing you could join them.  (You'll have to stop laughing first.)  The contrast of Mom's dialogue and Earl's voice (which Mom can't hear) to Buddy at their discovery adds a new dimension to the story bringing us along for the wonderful conclusion.  Here is a sample passage.

"You're right," said Earl. "I'm not a race car, I'm a giraffe."
Buddy thought about this.
Then he said, "I am pretty sure that giraffes have long graceful necks, Earl.  As far as I can tell, you have no neck at all."


At first glance the matching dust jacket and book case let you know this book is going to be spirited.  The motion marks for Buddy's tail and Earl's hedgehog body tell their own story.  To the left, on the back, Buddy is enjoying a peek inside the box, contents currently unknown.  Both the opening and closing endpapers are in a pale blue-gray hue.  With a page turn we see Buddy on his bed watching Earl stroll off the page.

A limited color palette, gray, blue, pale golden yellow, orange and brown, pairs perfectly with the narrative.  Rendered in

 Acryl Gouache on watercolor paper and assembled in Photoshop

the illustrations by Carey Sookocheff give readers a superb connection to the characters.  Some of the images are full page, others are smaller and grouped by twos and for full emotional impact they span two pages.  The background colors shift in excellent unison with the rise and fall of the story line.

The layout of the elements in each picture and the perspective are superb.  One of my favorite illustrations is when Earl is on top of the sofa as their imagined adventure begins.  Buddy with Earl's box on his head is a willing participant as he leaps up to join the hedgehog.  It's interesting to note how the shape of the box changes as their play advances.


Buddy and Earl by Maureen Fergus with pictures by Carey Sookocheff is an outstanding story on the gift of imagination and friendship.  Exceptional pacing will completely engage readers from beginning to end.   This joyful dedication speaks volumes:

For the real Buddy, because he is the best dog ever, and for the real Earl, even though he prickles me.---MF

Readers will hardly be able to wait for Buddy and Earl Go Exploring and Buddy and Earl and the Great Big Baby.

Please follow the links attached to Maureen Fergus' and Carey Sookocheff's names to access their websites.  You can learn more about them and their other work.  At the publisher's website you can view three more interior pages.